Does where you live affect your melanoma risk?

Worried about skin cancer? If you’re debating whether to wear a hat or apply sunscreen before heading outside—don’t hesitate. The vast majority of melanoma cases in the United States are attributable to exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, like those that come from the sun. And research suggests that some states have significantly higher rates of UV-linked melanoma than others.

What is melanoma?

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that forms in melanocytes, cells located in the lower part of the epidermis. You can develop melanomas on any part of your body. In women, these growths appear most often on the legs. In men, it’s the chest or back. They’re also commonly found on the face and neck.

More than 100,000 melanomas are diagnosed in the U.S. each year, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Though rates have risen steadily over the last few decades, melanoma makes up just 1 percent of new skin cancer cases annually.

However, melanoma accounts for most deaths related to skin cancer. That's because when it’s not detected and treated, melanoma spreads throughout the body more easily than other forms of skin cancer. The ACS estimates more than 8,000 people in the U.S. die of melanoma each year.

Some risk factors for melanoma can be controlled, including a primary risk factor: exposure to UV rays. Most of the UV rays we get come from the sun, though indoor tanning beds are also a chief source for many people.

Some other risk factors for melanoma can’t be controlled, including age, sex, race, and genetics:

• Though it’s found among younger adults, your chances of developing melanoma rise as you grow older; 66 is the average age of diagnosis.
• The disease is more common in white people, who are 20 times more likely than Black people to develop melanoma, and four times more likely than Hispanic people.
• Men are likelier to develop and/or die of melanoma overall, but women younger than age 50 have higher rates of the disease.
• There is a genetic component. If your family has a history of the condition, your risk increases.

How location factors into melanoma risk

Melanoma rates vary widely between states, partly due to demographics. States with a higher proportion of white people—who are more prone to developing melanoma—generally have higher rates of melanoma than other states.

But since melanoma risk also depends on exposure to UV rays, location and elevation also affect your chances of developing the disease.

• Location: UV rays are stronger in areas closer to the equator. Hawaii—the state closest to the equator—has a high incidence of UV-linked melanoma among white people.
• Elevation: Higher elevations can mean stronger UV rays. This may be why Utah and Idaho have some of the highest rates of melanoma in the U.S., aside from their demographics.

Other factors likely play into UV exposure, as well. These include time spent on outdoor activities, inadequate application of sun protection, snow reflection, use of tanning beds, and practices for early detection. Minnesota generally has higher rates of UV-linked melanoma—even though it’s more northern and landlocked—possibly for these reasons.

How to lower your odds of melanoma

There is no foolproof way to prevent melanoma, but you can reduce your risk by taking a few precautions. First, make sure to safeguard yourself from UV rays. When you head outside, remember to wear the best sunscreen for you, even if the weather is overcast.

Additionally, wear sunglasses, protective clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat. During the brightest hours of the day—usually around midday—stick to shady places or stay inside altogether. Avoid tanning beds.

Be on the lookout for changes in your skin, as well. Check yourself monthly for growths or moles and report anything new or unusual to your physician or another healthcare provider. Regular dermatologist exams may be recommended for some people, especially if they are prone to moles.